Another way to find work is by networking. Talk to neighbours, friends, people in your community, family and others to find jobs that may not be advertised.

Register with employment agencies

Employment agencies can help you find the right job. Some agencies specialize in temporary work placements. Others focus on specific industries. It’s very important to find the right agency for your industry.

Employment agencies cannot charge you a fee for helping you find a job. This cost must be covered by the employer. The agency should also be licensed.

Your resumé should include the skills you have identified and highlight the specific ones that the employer needs. A cover letter should give an employer one or two compelling reasons to read your resumé. It is typically a one-page document that summarizes your experience and explains why you are the best candidate for the job.

It is important to prepare for a job interview to give yourself the best chance of getting the job.

Do your research

Start by learning as much as you can about the job and company. Read the company’s website and search for articles about it online. This knowledge will help you demonstrate that you are serious about working there.

On interview day

Bring any material you may need, such as educational assessment documents, professional certificates and written references from past jobs.

You may need to apply for several positions before you get a job offer. It’s important not to get discouraged if it takes longer than you expect.

Consider applying for jobs in a related area to help you build valuable experience. You may need to upgrade your education. In the meantime, you may want to consider finding a temporary job to earn money and volunteering to gain experience and build a network as soon as possible after arriving.

Find a temporary job

A temporary job may not fit your education or professional training. It can also seem like a step down from your former occupation. However, it can be an important part of the settlement process by helping you:

Alberta is a great place to start a business. There's a real entrepreneurial spirit in the province. In fact, Calgary, Alberta, had the highest number of self-employed people per capita in Canada in 2014. Many newcomers to Alberta end up running their own businesses.

Resources to help you start a successful business include:

Business Link: Tools and resources to bring your business idea to life